Anekena Beach Easter Island, Chile
Anakena beach is known for its warm water and white sand, as well as the two
monuments that were restored in 1954: Ahu Ature Huki and Nau Nau.
It has an incredible archaeological value because it was the first ancient
city in the island, founded by the first king of Rapa Nui, Ariki Hotu Matua.
For those who love diving into lapislazuli colored water or walking along
beaches of soft white sand, Anakena beach is perfect. This wonderful beach
surrounded by a beautiful coconut tree forest is deservedly popular on weekends.
Between December and March, it is common to see some huts and
salesmen who offer beverages, pies (banana cake) and snacks.
Anakena also has a very symbolic meaning. It is the place where Hotu
Matua disembarked. Some people say that one of the many caves along the beach
was this king’s home. Also, Anakena must be the only beach in the world that
was blessed with two important archeological sites . On the hill above the
beach lies the Ahu Ature Huki, along with an enigmatic and solitary
moai. Anakena is also the home of the great Ahu Nau Nau.
Anakena Beach is the legendary landing place of Hotu Matua,
the founder of Rapa Nui. This is one of the few beaches on the island
that you can swim at relatively safely. The moai in the center are Ahu
Nau Nau, of which four are in good shape complete with topknots.
As you can see, this is a particularly scenic area- there are many more of the
Tahitian palm trees just to the right of the image,
making for a very pleasant area to spend time in.
From the opposite side, you get a good, clear view of this ahu and the
moai resting on it. Through the trees in the distance is the parking lot, and in
the midst of the trees is a picnic area- a pleasant area for lunch,
providing there aren't hundreds of other tourists around.